ajcsportstalk

By Ezekiel

August 22, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

I’m excited about this deal yet a little apprehensive. I like our trio of receivers but I need to see more out of Norwood. Now all I need to hear is that we picked up Jackson or Buckner at NT.

By Kirkwood

August 22, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

I think we are headed for the super bowl. That’s just what we needed another deep threat option! Go Falcons!

By Dwight Green

August 22, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me! This is huge! Duckett has been very consistent at getting in the endzone but I think our third round draft pick can pick up the slack when our probowler needs a rest. Lelie is a perfect fit for our offense. Happy birthday Mike!!!!!!!!

By Moker

August 22, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

This deal shows that the Falcons are the one professional sports team in Atlanta that is trying to win a Championship as soon as possible. Thank you Arthur Blank ! Go Falcons !

By Stiloman

August 22, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

I hope the Falcons have enough depth at RB.I like the sound of Lelie’s upside but it reminds me way too much of the talent/attitude situation we took on with Peerless Price. We all know what happened there.

I really wish we would have kept Duckett through the season, developed our young recivers and determined what we really have in Norwood.

It would have given us more flexability going in to next year, now we know we have a hole at RB to fill.

Portis must be hurt worse than we were led to believe, Good Luck TJ!

By drunk college kid

August 22, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

Wow! I’m so excited, I wish I could hit TJ DUCKETT with a beer bottle and knock his teeth out. Overrated Underachiever.

By Jason

August 22, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

hmmm…the jury is still out. I would have liked it better if he was traded to an AFC team. We dont want to make another NFC team better.

By Sean

August 22, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

Great Move! If you’re worried about Norwood, go back and watch him against SEC teams last year. Norwood is more suited for our offense. He will find the holes. Goodbye DVD and welcome DVN! And a big welcome to Mike’s new target!

By mo

August 22, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

I sure wish Duckett well. I think he will be a good bruiser back, once he gets enough snaps.

However, this deal makes sense for Atlanta. It fills a huge gap on offense. Now, y’all- holla at me about that D-line…

By Boy

August 22, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

Duckett will be missed. I think the rest of the preseason games will help Norwood out to be better than Duckett. Norwood fits our offense, as now for Lelie, he will have to get ready for Vick, he must show that he is willing to be a team player and jell with the young receivers. Good bye Pathon, hello Grady Jackson!!!

By NumbaOneFan

August 22, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Drunk College Kid… you are a punk and I wish you would hit TJ in the mouth with a beer bottle, I am sure you woulda gotten your punk Asse beat to a pulp. What did the man do to you personally to cause such hate… did he nail your sister or mom? pr maybe he nailed you while you were passed out drunk… no wait, my bad…. I think you volunteered to get nailed….Jeez the nerve of you. Hell I would kick your asse myself. Get off this blog

By Gary

August 22, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Do forget we play the redskins this year and he know the offense. Good luck for us

By Duane

August 22, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Let’s see if I understand correctly…we send a first round pick (having a great training camp)to the Redskins who send a 3rd or 4th round pick to Denver and we end up with an unhappy receiver in the last year of his contract who hasn’t spent a day in training camp yet. Only the Falcons could do something so stupid. Wait a minute, the Hawks are that stupid also (Harrington deal)

By Ced

August 22, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

This is a good move! we needed another receiver.. But I don’t like the fact that an unproven back will be our plan B for Dunn… And that we don’t have a true fullback.. there should definitely be some consideration given to getting rid of Griffin

By billy g

August 22, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

It was obvious that Duckett did not fit into Mora’s plans. Trading him was the smart thing to do and probably the best thing for TJ. TJ is a class act and will open a lot of eyes as a Redskin….I wish him well.

As far as the compensation for TJ, I am not so optimistic. Lelie has a history of frequent injuries and a less than courageous attitude on the field. He is a deep threat guy, much in the mold of Price. Hopefully, he will give his all in his “contract year.” In my opinion, Lelie is not enough compensation for TJ but, for the time being, I’ll try to keep the faith.

By billy g

August 22, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

We were offered a third round pick during this past draft by the Steelers. Didn’t we just trade Duckett for Lelie, who was traded to Washington for a third round pick?

By johnmrog

August 22, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Let’s see now… we trade away a 1st round pick for the worthless Peerless Price. Then we use two MORE 1st round picks for the totally non-productive Michael Jenkins and Roddy White. And then we trade away a former 1st-round pick (Duckett) for a disgruntled, whining non-productive wide receiver.

I say we continue to trade players for and draft even MORE wide receivers and continue to totally ignore the offensive and defensive lines!!! The Falcons will be the first team in the history of the NFL to win with an ALL WIDE RECEIVER LINEUP!!!! Wouldn’t that be, like, totally awesome!!!!

By Mark

August 22, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

Great move! As long as we can get Lelie’s head straightened out this will be $$$. We get Lelie instead of, say, McCariens. That’s like a maserati versus a civic.

By Salty Dawg

August 22, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

We are luck McKay didn’t get the commissioner’s job. His deals feel pretty good so far. Lelie can spread out a defense and will compliment Jenkins and White. I just wonder if we shouldn’t have dealt an aging Dunn instead of Duckett?

By Dexterdawg

August 22, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

drunk college kid, I can see you hitting TJ in the head with a bottle,and him making you eat it while he is bouncing your little head off the bleachers

By Salty Dawg

August 22, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Good deal, but I wonder if we shouldn’t have traded an aging Dunn instead?

By Love 'em & Leave 'em

August 22, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

I thought that Ashley (strangely he shares the name with my nanny) wanted to be a “number one” guy.

Either you’re a running team or a passing team. We seem to be a running team. Yet we have three WR who are former #1 picks.

Does anybody feel that we have even one #1 guy at the WR position? And while we have three guys who were number one picks on the outside (or in the slot) we have zero guys along the OL who were number one guys.

“Cart, turn around and meet the horse” It’s not a super bowl team.

Can you guys imagine Duckett running against OUR defense. I’d better pad the room now.

By obie

August 22, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

If Dunn get’s hurt this season the trade will go down as a disaster. Duckett provided a great change of pace when replacing Dunn. I hope it works since the Falcons did need someone to replace Brian.

By Demarc from Doug

August 22, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Last chance to get on the bandwagon you fake falcon fans and falcon haters, we’ll see what you have to say when the falcons are back in the playoffs!!! Win or lose “FALCON FAN FOREVER”!!!!

By Rell

August 22, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Man if Dunn goes down the season is lost and ill be looking for someone to lose their job behind this trade. I cant believe we traded Duckett, a proven backup. Vick’s no gonna be able to carry this team with just his arm. Im a real fan thats been here so I know our luck…. Im mad about this trade. 100 bucks says Duckett shows out against us on Dec 3rd.

By This gets old

August 22, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

If you’re in the playoffs hunt, late in the season, do you want an extra, tough RB or another WR?

We’re not going to spend to resign Lelie which means that we’ll need yet another WR in the draft.

Tough, physical football wins now in the NFL. Moss and Owens aren’t “charater” guys but Lelie is? We give the “not quite a backup” role to a guy that our coach said didn’t show up in a preseason game!

We have an extra pick next season. Why didn’t we get somebody along one or both lines for TJ? He’s gonna run wild behind a normal sized line in an offense that is well coached.

By matt r

August 22, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

At first I didn’t like the notion of trading a potential 1,000 yard rusher for a third receiver, but Lelie can be the number one guy on our team, number two at the least. Unfortunately Vick has a couple weeks to develop any sort of chemistry with him. I find it super ironic that in the 2002 draft everyone on ESPN, in Atlanta, and in my house thought we were about to take Lelie with the 18th pick. They threw us for a loop and took Duckett after we had just signed Dunn. Looks like we are getting who thought was coming, just four years later.

I am a bit surprised that they went for Lelie since he has been grumbling about being a number one receiver, and the Blank regime has been all about avoiding the selfish guys. But, I guess if we avoided every player who’s ever grumbled at all, we wouldn’t have but a few players on our roster.

By drmondo

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

I’m less concerned about a #3 WR who may get thrown to 5-10 times a game than I am about a DT who can shut down the run and will be involved in half the plays of the game. I agree ATL had to find a temporary replacement for Finn but was it worth Duckett? If ATL can’t shut down the other team’s running game than how much does a #3 WR matter?

By Adam

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

For all you fans that are so high on Lelie, have you noticed that he’s not even in camp and when he does show up, he rarely “shows up”?

Stupid trade. McKay thinks this team has SB chances when the O line stinks and the D line needs a run stopper in the middle.

Oh well, I’ve been a Falcons fan since the 60’s and this is nothing new.

By D Dunk

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

This team is something else. Michael Vick is a great athlete but I don’t think he’s a quaterback. Now the team trades one of their most productive players for a wide receiver who may not get the ball much because of a questionable line and below average quaterback. Not to mention an offensive line that has questionmarks and an offense that was Offensive last year. Typical Facons trading Duckett.

By motleygunner

August 22, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

Here is a concept… why don’t you let Rich McKay do his job, he is probably the best in the business. You are all a bunch of clueless honks, and that is why you are posting on this site and he is running the Falcons. I will take my chances with McKay’s choices over any of you hacks.

By charles

August 22, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

thanks to tj-we all know injuries hampered your productivity as for lelie-he seems like a less talented version of t.o.

By ILL-logical

August 22, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

Short term the trade is a win-win: TJ gets away from a system that would not work with/for him;the Falcons get a deep threat who will be starting by game 3 of the regular season(Roddy is a *) and make Alge even more of a threat. Now that Grady Jackson’s “heart murmur” has cleared up, the D will be improved against the run by game 3 of the regular season. Got to go 11-5 baby!

By Big "D"

August 22, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

I’m sick and tired of everybody saying “if” Dunn goes down, this is football s..t happens. What if Peyton Manning or S.Alexander goes down? Their teams would hurt too, all you old mothers and 3rd string couch players shut up and stop worrying!!!

By Rutuger

August 22, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

After an eight year drought, we finally have someone who could plausibly be considered a no. 1 receiver…

… and it doesn’t matter b/c stubborn Mora refuses to let him play above two far inferior players.

Way to look out for the team’s best interests there, Jimmy!

By SCDAWG

August 22, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

If he did’nt want to be #3 in Denver, why would he be # 3 in the ATL? This kid has a lot of upside, I just hope he dosn’T turn the Falcon’s upside down!

By Marty Foreman

August 22, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

Some Falcon fans are upset about this but, the Falcons could get nothing in return for him if they waited until next year! Also, that’s why we have great G.M.s and head coaches- to not only have talent and great plays on the field but to also know what your guys (including RB rookies)are capable of doing! So a team can fill their needs to the very best of their experienced and NFL-wise abilities.

By Brian

August 22, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade. The Falcons have needed WR since the 2002 draft when Ashley Lelie was drafted #15 overall by denver — then 28th overall was duckett. At the time they told us “best athelete available”.. ok, so now basically you just traded #28 money for #14 money, that’s a good trade AND if Dunn stays healthy, you’ve upgraded the offense.

By Brian

August 22, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade. The Falcons have needed WR since the 2002 draft when Ashley Lelie was drafted #15 overall by denver — then 28th overall was duckett. At the time they told us “best athelete available”.. ok, so now basically you just traded #28 money for #14 money, that’s a good trade AND if Dunn stays healthy, you’ve upgraded the offense.

By El Guapo

August 22, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

* THE RSS FEED FOR THIS BLOG IS NOT WORKING. CLICK ON THE “RSS FEED FOR THIS BLOG” LINK ON THE LEFT. THE MOST RECENT POST SHOWN IS FROM SEPTEMBER 2005. PLEASE FIX THIS. THANKS. *

By csu2010

August 22, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

I hate to see Duckett go, but as long as the Falcons win games and make a playoff appearance this season, I can get over him leaving. Let’s all hope Leile can contribute to the team.

By JJMB

August 22, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

So long, waste of a first round pick, stumble bum!

By JB

August 22, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

I WISH WE WOULD HAVE GOTTEN JERRY PORTER. JURY IS STILL OUT ON LELIE. HIS NUMBERS REMIND ME OF PEERLESS.NOW LETS GET THE DT

By Xfactor

August 22, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

All I got to say is if you are under contract and getting paid the money these guys get - and you refuse to show up for work - then you are a classless, heartless loser who’s word means nothing. And that is not the kind of person I would want on my team. I think it is a major mistake bringing a loser like Leslie to the Falcons. We need more guys like Duckett who knows how to be a team player - instead of a guy who only thinks of himself.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Outstanding!! Lelie comes to the Falcons 3 years late. We should’ve drafted him #18. I would like to thank TJ for being a class act throughout his tenure with the team. Good luck, and remember to hit the hole hard. When the down marker has a 3 or 4 on it, that means NO TIPPY TOES!!!!! Take it east and see ya during the season. Now let’s embrace the newest Falcon. You guys must be reading some drunk reporters column. No one in the league can say he has character issues. Get the facts straight. Denver brass mad him some verbal agreements concerning his contract situation and apparently lied to him and signed Javon Walker to provide leverage against his contract negotiations. For his part he felt that he could no longer represent an organization that doesn’t have the players best interest at heart. I admire his conviction. He was willing to sit out the entire year. Enough of that. Let’s welcome the newest Falcon. This means that at any given time Vick, Dunn (Norwood), Crumpler, White, Jenkins, and Lelie could be on the field at the same time. I kinda like our chances. The young fellas will see alot more single coverages and the middle will open up for Crump. Any defensive coordinator who single covers Lelie will not be employed for long. If they do, the score board will light up. I to be greedy, but, Mr. Blank, I have one last request. Sign Jackson or Buckner tomorrow. Thanks…

By tech guy

August 22, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

It’s a good trade. Not a perfect trade, but they don’t exist in the NFL anymore. A third receiver affects the game way more than a back-up running back. If we didn’t have Norwood it never happens. Essentially, there is minimal risk here. I’d say that both players haven’t ever lived up to their potential, but Lelie will make the team better. Still need a stout DT, and I’d be stunned if we didn’t get one before the Carolina game.

By Skydawg

August 22, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget that Griffith can play some RB as well if needed. The one that should really be happy is Cobb. He might have just won a roster spot by default. I just hope Lelie drops the “tude” that he’s had with Denver the past year. Maybe a change of scenery will do him good.

By James

August 22, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

In order for the west coast offense to work, you need a deep threat. But you also need a QB who can hit the deep receiver. How many times last year did Vick go deep? And, how deep into the season will it take for Vick to have confidence in throwing to Lelie?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

This is a very bad decision. I am very disappointed in the Falcons for trading Duckett. Duckett is 10 times the half back Dunn could ever dream to be.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

Xfactor, I couldn’t let this one go. Please don’t comment until you’ve done adequate research. Let’s not let $$$$ that athletes make cloud your thought processes. If your boss promoted or hired someone with the idea of giving them your job or using that person as leverage in your next performance appraisal, you wouldn’t like it one bit. By signing Walker, that’s effectively what they did. They said, take that. He said okay, I’m out. By the way, he’s was losing a significant amount of money to make his point. He put his money where his mouth was, so to speak. I admire it. I’d heard nothing but positive things about him since college. So lets leave contract squabbles to the parties involved and just enjoy the entertainment the players provide. Leave the jealously of their high pay for playing a game out of it…….

By Stewart

August 22, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Please, everyone stop with all the b***. Dunn is the most underrated back in the league. The more he touches the ball, the better he is. Norwood, who? Warrick Dunn will have 1,800 yards this year and carry the Birds to the division title. He’s a bad man.

By Boo Boo

August 22, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Did anybody but me hear McKay say during the game vs. Green Bay that Duckett wasn’t going anywhere? Now they say that no receiver will bump Jenkins and White. Yea right. Lelie is putting up $14k a day to be a number 1 receiver so why would he come here to be number 3. Roddy and Mike you better watch your back!

sooooo we get rid of our DVD to get a target that Vick will probably never throw to as long as he has Crump? So what happens next year when Finn is back? Now we’re running the risk of no longer being the number 1 rushing team in the league to be a mediocre passing one. How dumb is that?!

By Skydawg

August 22, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Only concern I have after reflecting on it for a few minutes. How is Lelie going to react to being a “3rd receiver”? Especially in a contract year.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Boo Boo,

When McKay said that, he was just putting that notion out there to get teams to increase their offers for Duckett…that’s just a negotiating ploy.

No team in the NFL is about to make Lelie a #1 and he knows that. At least with ATL he will have a chance to play, and Roddy has shown he is injury prone. So if he got hurt, do you want Pathon or Jennings lining up with the first team? I thought not.

Lelie only has one year on his contract, as did Duckett. Lelie will be gone after this season.

By Boots

August 22, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this

Unless Lelie runs a 3.5 forty, he won’t have time to get down field before Vick starts to juke and jive his way to great rushing yards, but mediocre passing stats.

By Ain't it odd

August 22, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

Guys, Duckett scored 31 TD’s here. That doesn’t mean anything to anybody?? Lelie hasn’t just missed camp he’s missed most OTA’s.

By the way the West Coast offense doesn’t depend upon the deep throws. If it did nobody would be talking about Vick’s accuracy. He throws a great deep ball, it’s just nobody who can get deep on the roster and that’s going to include Lelie.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

Skydawg,

According to other news reports, Lelie had 2 options: Be a #3 on another team or sit out the season. Which do you think is worse during a contract year? Denver had him by the “you know what”.

By Terry J. Lee

August 22, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

I think that this is a wonderful trade. T. J. Duckett was a very inconsistent runner sometimes he ran hard aand at times he did’nt. He was suppose to be a punishing back like Mike Alstott for Tampa Bay, but Duckett was always trying to run like Warrick Dunn. Good Bye!

By Dave

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

It’s not going to matter. 1- The O-line can’t block for Vick long enough for him to get the ball to anyone with any consistency. 2- When he gets time, Vick is still the scattershot thrower he was in college. 3- It’s all a moot point when you can’t stop the run.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

@Ain’t it odd

Lelie is in shape, he just needs a couple of weeks to get in football shape and get some timing with Vick. The Falcons will use him to stretch the field. I think your generalization of the WCO is off a bit. Denver runs a very similar offense as the Falcons.

@Boots, you are an idiot.

By Birddog

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

TJ is in shape and primed for one of his best seasons and we have a lot of needs. We could have gotten more than a cry baby, t.o. wannabe that turns his back on his teammates.

By Bubba

August 22, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

Good point BOO BOO. Mckay looked right in the camera and said Duckett wasn’t going anywhere. Was adamant about it. Guess that makes him a liar. Why couldn’t he just say “no comment”. Nice character Rich.

By Boots

August 22, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

Who’s talking about Vick’s passing accuracy. My God, his average yardage per completion is 6 yards. And, his passer rating is 25th in the league.

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:15 PM | Link to this

I love Warrick Dunn, truly. He is the absolute best player the Falcons have had in decades. He will give us a couple more great years and then retire at the top. Class A player and Class A person. Don’t forget that being a Class A player has allowed him to be the Class A person he always wanted to be (ie, charities).

By Mike

August 22, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

What is the matter with this organization?? It is hard enough to stomach watching Gregg Knapp run our offence into the ground and keep his job because he is Mora’s buddy. Trading our best back, and yes he is the better back, is nothing short of negligent. To make it worse were trading him for a basket case who wont even show up for camp. At leat T.O. can say he is a number one reciever. WAY TO GO MCKAY, perhaps if you hurry you can trade Vick for someone’s third string holdout QB. TJ, I hope you run for 2000 yards this year good luck. Falcons, we deserve to lose.

By marc

August 22, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

I think it is a good move. i have been screaming about our receiveing core all offseason. i think it forces the wr to step up and guarantees good wr play. i think it helps us come from behind if needed. And…if tj can be productive with his style, Norwood can too- but Please stay healthy Warrick! Please?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Jennifer- Being a Class A Chairty person does not make Warrick Dunn a Class A player. He’s a schmuck. And he should have been traded instead of “The Mack Truck” TJ.

By Morris

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

So TJ is gone, and we have a new offensive weapon for vick, as a 3WR if he can click with lelie during the season, however thaat leaves two holes left to fill, a run stuffer DT and a medioum quality back up for dunn (we could sign duce once he is waive by the steelers) and with noorwood and our couple of FB whe can still be the No.1 running offense in the NFL, remember Duckett reduced his average last season. now lets hope the OL can handle the pressure from the DL, in order for vick to find in post or slant patterns to its receivers.

By Red and Black

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

I like the trade but wonder why Jenkins is our #1 receiver. This guy has had time to prove himself yet he would not make the practice squad on any other NFL team today. Time to face facts that Jenkins was a mistake and should be moved to the #3 and out when Finneran comes back next year. Make Lelie the #1 and hope that Vick can get him the ball downfield.

Duckett could have been much better here had the coaching staff given him more opportunities. He will do well in Washington.

By Doomed

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

This is a bad deal!!!!!!! When did the Atlanta Falcons become a pass oriented team? The number one rushing team in the league trades there #2 running back for a number #3 wide reciever what is the sense in that? Not to mention the starting QB only completes 55% of his passes. Mark 12/3 on your calendar, TJ Duckett will rush for 125 yards (Assuming Portis is still out) and score two touchdowns (whether Portis is out or not). Don’t belive me, just think about Boris Diaw.

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand how people can say we need Duckett. He was terrible last season, and has never been great. Our league best rushing attack is not because of him, it’s because of Dunn. Norwood will learn and will be a good backup and fit for our rushing style. Plus we have more than enough fullbacks who can punch the ball into the endzone if need be. People seem to forget how many times Duckett got the ball last year and went no where. It was so frustrating. He doesn’t fit our scheme. I wish him well, but am glad we got rid of him. It’s a risk taking Lelie, but if his heads on straight, this could end up being a steal.

By mountain_jim

August 22, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

Best receiver we have had in 5 years - watch and see:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By BAD NEWS!

August 22, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Too many ‘what ifs” here for the Falcons. Still too many young and unproven wide outs for a Vick-Type-Offensive scheme as well as questionable offensive and defensive lines to compete in an already strong NFC South Division. The only beneficiary of this trade is Duckett, and if healthy, will have a breakout year behind a strong/experienced Skin’s offensive line and a veteran coach in Joe Gibbs who is always committed to big and strong running backs to exeute his run offense. Like John Riggins 25 years ago, Dunkett fell into the perfect situation to accumulate 1,500+ yards this season. Just watch….Falcons will be haunted by this unbalanced trade and miss the playoffs again while Dunkett leds the Skins to the playoffs and make his 1st Pro Bowl this season, thanks in part to the Falcon’s front office. Boooooo!

Bad news!

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this

I wish people would stop saying Duckett is a good #2 back. When has he ever proven he can be effective for a whole game? He would put us in 3rd down and 6, 3rd down and 8 way too much. He’s not effective enough. Sure, he’s a good change of pace, but that’s it. Washington will see. He can’t carry a whole team for a whole game. I’d rather have Justin Griffeth than Duckett….wait a minute, we do have that option now!

By cptevil

August 22, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

Did Rick Mckay and Mark Richt go bowling together last night, get drunk, and both decide to ruin their seasons?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

LMAO @ cptevil

By Stewart

August 22, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Spunkypeach, everytime you type something you are proving that your IQ is about 10 points higher than a bowling shoe. Please, never, ever, watch another Falcons game again.

Dunn will rush for 1,800 now that he is the only back on the team. He’s a bad man.

If the Falcons can stop other teams from running the football, we will win the division.

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Peachyshit or whatever, schmuck? Who are you kidding? Lookit, Duckett will do fine now that he is in the proper set up. He has talent and works hard. But he was not suited to the Falcons. Dunn, however, is 100% perfect. And he’s followed closely by the fabulous Griff. Hopefully Norwood can prove his worth. But Duckett over Dunn on this team was a complete null. Where do you get off just because you WANT the Falcons to have an old school yard a dust back? Sorry, not the right type of back. And schmuck is a personality word. Dunn is no schmuck. Not as a person as we all know. And does the phrase “career season” mean anything to you? Sound smuckish? Or how about how he’s gotten better EVERY SEASON he’s been here? And Duckett has not (not because he’s not talented but because he wasn’t a good fit)..

Look, you like Duckett. So follow his career and cheer him on no matter where he is. Good on you to do that. Bad on you to insist he should stay where he doesn’t fit.

Dunn is the best Falcon in decades.

By Amy

August 22, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

Stewart-Your bowling shoe comment is lame, as are your opinions. Apparently we are watching different Falcons games. Dunn is still a schmuck.

By eddie

August 22, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

Baaaaad trade. Duckett is a bonafide runner who gave ATL depth at RB, they now have none. Top that off with getting nothing more than Lelie who didn’t even want to show up and compete for the no. 1 or 2 spot. Who really thinks Lelie will be satisfied playing for ATL when he was playing for a top team like Denver. Looks like Den. and Wash. pulled one over on the Falcons.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

Before anyone else makes anymore uninformed comments. Please scroll up and click on link supplied by mountin jim. The video is undisputable. We haven’t seen a receiver make these plays since Rison. On several plays he has to wait for the ball. Oh, what could’ve been in Philly that cold winter night…. Lelie will open up the offense for everyone. Warrick Dunn is CLASS personified on or off the field. Anyone who says different needs to check themselves……

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Amy, peach, schmuck means “jerk”, literally. Do you really think that Dunn is a jerk, on the field (because we know he’s not off)?

By bruce

August 22, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Listen up! Duckett probably will not even last in Washington. As soon as Portis shows he is healthy (which will be no later than week 2), Duckett becomes just another change of pace back. Perhaps Washington will look to use him as trade bait later on. Meanwhile, I certainly hope the Falcon front office has gotten assurances from the Agent for Lelie that he is in shape and anxious to play in Atlanta. If he continues to hold out this trade will most certainly be a bust.

By Shaun T.

August 22, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

Bad News, you may be as dumb as they come. How will T.J. Duckett rush for 1500 yards when he will eventually be backing up Clinton Portis. How much would you like to wager that he doesn’t make the Pro Bowl?

By Yo Mama

August 22, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

Jennifer, sweetheart, do you live in a house that Warrick Dunn bought for you?? Is that why you are so defensive?

By baller

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

Duckett tip-toed up to the line. He very seldom ran hard like a back his size should have. We should have traded him for some offensive linemen.

By Alex

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

What has Ashley proven so far in the NFL. Nothing…occasional flashes of greatness at best. T.J. Duckett is a proven NFL RB…granted, he slumped a lot the last few games of last season, not being able to gain yardage on 3 and 1 or 4 and 1 situations…but we usually see him gain positive yardage and eat up defenses with his running style straight up the middle.

Ashley is not a character guy, I’m not going to say he’s a T.O or a Randy Moss…but what did his most recent antics in Denver show to the Falcons, so that they would want to gamble on this trade? He’s a malcontent who whines and wants “the ball” and if he doesn’t get it 10 times a game throws a fit. Is he a good blocking WR like Brian Finneran is? Hell no, is he a third down possesion receiver? He hasn’t show that he is so far. The falcons panicked and rushed to get a WR who is shady and has been subpar so far in his NFL career.

By GetaGrip

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

Has anyone besides me and mountain jim seen this guys work?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By True Fan

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

What the H### is wrong with some of the people on this blog!? All of a sudden TJ Duckett is the best back we had? Even better than Dunn!? While some of you are waxing poetic about Duckett let me remind you about 3rd and inches lost a yard, 3rd and 1 no gain, 4th and 1 lost a yard, 2nd and goal no gain, 3rd and goal lost 1 yard and on and on. I’ll miss Duckett too, but please cut the freaking Crap! TJ would have never worked in our system. Not that he’s not a good back, just not for our team. Dunn is 10xs the back TJ is. Good grief Charlie Brown! Yall act like the sports world just ended!

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 11:56 PM | Link to this

Alex, Educate yourself, PLEASE!!! or Just be quiet… Yo Mama, Your CLASSLESS… Knock him out Jennifer… Thanks, DUNN fans

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

True Fan…thank you! Do we forget how Duckett ran last year!? This wasn’t just a slump over the last few games! Come on people, he only had 308 yards over 16 games! Why are people trying to make him out to be the league MVP or something! Are we saying that Norwood cannot match that output in mop up work and spelling Dunn for rests? If he can get 300 yards, he’ll match what Duckett did last year. I guarantee he will, plus we’ll have a good #3 receiver to boot! Let’s stop this TJ Duckett love fest please! Play back some games from last year, and you’ll be reminded.

By tom

August 23, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

Whoa….Gregg knapp only used TJ on 3rd and short situations. Whenever he ran on the field everyone in the stadium knew he was getting the ball. Its not hard to stop any back when you put 9 guys in the box. TJ never had a chance with Knapp calling the plays. When my 12 year old daughter says “here comes TJ, hes gonna get the ball”, there is a problem.

By Jennifer

August 23, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

Yo Mama/Peach/Amy, sigh

alright…I’ll address the whole insult comment about the house.

No. Dunn has not bought me a house. In fact, I currently own two homes, all on my one. One in Gwinnett, one in Candler Park. I am trying to sell the one in Gwinnett, so it’s not like I’m some rich girl who can afford a house in the stick and one in the city.

And, there are a few people, Mountain Jim included, who know me from way back. They know that I started following Dunn because he’s from where I’m from, because we’re the same age, because he lost his own mama, because he made a point to help out other, and most of all, because of all that other crap, he made a point to be the best at what he does. Hes a GREAT back. There is no one who can say otherwise.

Now, when it comes to the Falcons. I only became a Falcons fan because they took Dunn. So, if you’re a Duckett fan then I understand why you’d be miffed that the traded him. However, you’re thinking that traded means fired. No, that would be incorrect thinking. It was also best in Duckett’s interest to be traded. He was warming the bench and getting booed over here and he didn’t really deserve that. He deserved to be on a team that needed a bruiser.

OK, so YM/Peahc/Amy, get over yourself. You. Are. Wrong.

End of story as far as I am concerned.

Next.

By SpunkyPeach

August 23, 2006 12:13 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure who Yo Mama is, but whatever. Jennifer, I agree with you that Dunn is a stand up guy, he is. But that does not make him a good RB. It just doesnt. So regardless of who I am a fan of, I still think this trade is a bad decision. So, as far as I am concerned, this is over.

By tom

August 23, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know where Gregg Knapp lives??…..I’ll bring the eggs if you’ll bring the toilet paper.

By Alec

August 23, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

I think of it like this….

I rather have Norwood behind Dunn and either Ashly Lelie, Michael Jenkins, or Roddy White as the third WR.

Then Duckket behind Dunn and Adam Jennings as the third reciever.

By maya lucia

August 23, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this

ok den…

what was that last comment about?

now’s the time for norwood to step up and be the baller that he is…..

and we have 3 recievers now who can play…..who care’s who’s 1,2, or 3…….just score 6.

vick must show he can throw & run & lead the team…..

none of it matters without a strong line….

we’ll talk about defense another time….

GOOD TRADE!

By BuzzKill

August 23, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this

I agree with the skeptics. We’re sending a motivated 1st rounder who knows our offense and was good insurance for Warrick Dunn, with a guy who is disgruntled and hasn’t spent 1 day in camp this season. Also, Lelie is talented but inconsistent and he was holding out because he was #3 in Denver, which is what he is in ATL as well. This move has the old Falcons written all over it, but hopefully McKay and Mora did their due diligence on Lelie.

By Tim

August 23, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

Great trade for everyone concerned.

The Broncos get a draft pick for a disgruntled Lelie, the Redskins get another power back/insurance for Porter, and the Falcons get a speedy #1 WR.

Lelie is going to light it up. The means that Roddy White needs to step it up or else he’s going to find himself riding the pine.

Think about it, we have 3 sub 4.4/40 receivers with great size. What’s not to like?

By Jennifer

August 23, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this

Peach,

Ok, my apologies, you’re not YM. But, my point. Dunn and Duckett are both good backs. Dunn is better overall by experience and better for the Falcons by design. Duckett will be good for another team and I sincerely wish him well. He deserves to be top dog somewhere.

But he was not for here. And I can’t be convinced otherwise. And Dunn is not a schmuck…unless you define it as a nice guy who can really zig zag around defenses.

I’m not arguing this point any further. Dunn was a better fit than Duckett. Dunn is the best Falcon in decades.

By wclark

August 23, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

Actually I really don’t know about this trade. TJ was a sure TD and he gave a good balance to the offense. On the other hand Norwood shows balance, durability, and quickness. Ashley coming to the table actually needs to come to the table and make a difference to the offense. He needs to make an impact and lead as an example as he did in Denver. We need a big WR in Atlanta haven’t had one since the little but, awesome Mathis…. Hope everything turns out good for the Falcons…

By Wedgie Evans

August 23, 2006 12:48 AM | Link to this

Duckett didn’t fit this system, so it’s not surprising that he was traded — although he’s probably going to excel in Joe Gibbs’ run offense which emphasizes the power running game (a direct contrast from the pansy a* scheme we run here). Looking back, the Falcons should have probably drafted Lelie or Javon Walker in 2002 instead of Duckett based on need anyway.

But once again the Falcons’ management screws it up. Apparently the Falcons’ management doesn’t realize that after Vick and Dunn, Griffith and Crumpler (a FB and TE) were the most important skill-position players on this team last year. So basically even if they get a 3rd WR, he is going to be on the field at the expense of either Griffith or Crumpler. So far in his career Ashley Lelie has only proven his inconsistency — in fact you could even say he has been more inconsistent than Duckett. Instead of filling their gaping hole in the D-line with a run-stuffing DT, they get a player they don’t really need. Yeah, Lelie is gonna be a lot of help while we continue giving up 150 rushing yards per game.

By dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

Every day i’m more amazed at how stupid Falcons fans are. Everyone hated Duckett last year, and now you guys love him again? You would hate any move that this team and organization makes, and that’s what makes you some of the worst fans in the NFL. No team loyalty. We traded a backup for a starter ok? Both players would have been gone off of the Falcons roster next year anyways. Why don’t you idiots wait and see how this guy actually looks in our offense before you jump all over these boards? Back to my worst fans in the NFL theory. I’m proud of my team but so ashamed of it’s fans. The Falcons filled a need. Plain and simple. Expect to see a NT signed in the next week as well, and then expect these sorry fans to jump all over the board and talk about how stupid Rich McKay is for filling another need. Sorry Sorry Fans. Shame on you.

By Jason

August 23, 2006 01:15 AM | Link to this

I watched that video MountainJim sent in and noticed three smnall things: 1, No touchdowns 2, No abilitiy to break a tackle 3, He never displayed any blazing speed. Also, he better learn to use both hands when catching a Mike Vick pass or he will stay third string all season before he is cut at the end of the year.

Here is the video again: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By KJ

August 23, 2006 01:16 AM | Link to this

I think it’s a good move other than the fact that Ashley Lelie is in the last year of his contract. Even though Mora claims the #1 & #2 WR positions are set, Lelie has the talent to at least be at least the #2. The question is, will the Falcons be willing/able to pay to keep him after the end of the season.

By will c.

August 23, 2006 01:40 AM | Link to this

I like the move for the Falcons and Duckett. The Falcons are not impressed with the remaining receivers in camp so its a good decision to bring in a veteran receiver. Its also a good move for Duckett in that he will play immediately with the injury to Clinton Portis. I wonder if the Redskins will resign him at the end of year.

http://www.williamcoit.com

By e.b.

August 23, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this

I liked Duckett, but he’s not the explosivebrand of RB. He’s more like a fullback with a tad more speed. I wouldn’t worry about him going against us in December. I do like this trade, but we do need to stop the run as well. I think Mora realizes this, and they are looking for defensive solutions.

By e.b.

August 23, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

I liked Duckett, but he’s not the explosivebrand of RB. He’s more like a fullback with a tad more speed. I wouldn’t worry about him going against us in December. I do like this trade, but we do need to stop the run as well. I think Mora realizes this, and they are looking for defensive solutions.

By Miles

August 23, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

LMAO at the clueless people on this site. Crying over losing a RB who isnt effective in anything but goaline situations in this offense. Terrific trade for the falcons. They acquired a number 2 type receiver who is better than evey WR on our roster not named Roddy White. He has the height and size needed to be effective in our offense (unlike Price and Dez White). Sure, Duckett allowed us to have the cool “DVD” combo but thats all he really offered (average a measly 3.1 YPC in 2005). We need quick, elusive runningbacks in our offense due to the cut blocking system and this will never suit Duckett’s game (and he’s a free agent at the end of the year). Best of luck to him in Washington but Lelie is a tremendous upgrade for the team.

By Miles

August 23, 2006 02:10 AM | Link to this

woohoo!!!!!

Falcons sign DT Grady Jackson!!! Good move that is looooong overdue.

Falcons | Team agrees to terms with G. Jackson Tue, 22 Aug 2006 22:42:54 -0700

D. Orlando Ledbetter, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reports the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with free agent DL Grady Jackson (Packers), according to his agent Angelo Wright. The contract is for three years and financial terms were undisclosed. He must still pass a physical and could practice Wednesday, Aug. 23.

By broncobillyindy

August 23, 2006 02:16 AM | Link to this

You are a fine collection of fools if you believe Lelie will add another dimension to the offense of Atlanta. True, he can stretch the field with a post or streak. Unfortunately though, this is all he has ever been able to do. He develops baby arms over the middle; quivers at the sound of foot steps anywhere on the turf, and moans “why me?” repeatedly at bedtime. He is soft on his routes, weak on his blocking, and psychologically inadequate to handle the pressures of being an NFL receiver. This idiot was given every chance to prove himself as a 1 or 2. Instead, He chose to stay home and cry while a 36 year old undrafted OFA, and an ACL rehabilitating one hit wonder of a question mark play catch with the QB’s at Dove Valley in preparation for another successful run. June Jones and Shanahan both gave him excellent opportunities to prove himself. The Broncos thought they had found their pot-o-gold at the end of this Rainbow Warrior. Turns out, it was nothing more than a pot of four years of potential.

A-lie, don’t forget to keep your helmet on. Southern folk prefer the ‘c’ and ‘d’ sizes. Finally, thank God we don’t have to worry anymore about putting the toilet seats down at Mile High…
ALOHA LOSER!

By Hold that Tiger

August 23, 2006 03:01 AM | Link to this

If Lelie couldn’t make it in a well coached offense in Denver what the hell makes anybody here think he’ll be successful in Atlanta.

We play in an extremely physical division. Lelie doesn’t fit that offense and frankly a lot of teams are not using the WCO anymore. Yes, I know it’s our VERSION of it but frankly if you can’t line up and go toe to toe with the other teams you’re not going to win in this division.

Down on the goal line everybody (excepting the QB of course) you’ve got to knock people back. Duckett did that, we’ll miss it on the field. The fancy pants act won’t cut it down there and the aim of the game is to score TD’s not rack up impressive running stats while you’re losing.

By Me

August 23, 2006 04:19 AM | Link to this

So much for the “Falcon Filter”

By not bad

August 23, 2006 05:37 AM | Link to this

I like it. My only question…would we have been better off sending our third to Denver for Lelie then trading Duckett to Wash. for line depth?

By mcc

August 23, 2006 06:01 AM | Link to this

The Falcons will rue the day they traded a disgruntled running back with a good work ethic for a disgruntled WR with a bad work ethic. At least Duckett showed up to practice. Lelie held out because he was behind Rod Smith and Javon Walker, two all-pros. How do you think he’ll respond to being behind the Falcons’ dead fishes at WR? More holdout, that’s how.

By michael

August 23, 2006 06:02 AM | Link to this

T.J.! We’re gonna miss you man! But this was a good trade, but if I was GM I sware I would’ve got rid of that sorry a$$ Brooking. And you sir! would still be apart of this team! But what this trade do is keep defenses honest now. Now teams can’t stack the line of scrimage, and blitz the whole game like Carolina and other did last year! This trade open up the field alot, I can’t wait too see how it effects other teams now! But I say let trade Brooking, and get help at the OL & Safety position, and sign Buckner! And this team would be strong all across the board!

By HAROLD

August 23, 2006 06:06 AM | Link to this

Is it really a good trade??

For the Skins and Broncos yes!! Reason is this. The Broncos release a time bomb by letting Lelie go. With Denver having a new future QB and an extra pick next year, they are setting themselves up nice. With the Skins in a Dogfight division like ours, the extra bruiser back with proven skills will help them tremendously! They play a physical ball control offense, which backs like Duckett thrive in.

For the Falcons, yes we have more speed on the outside now, but look at our divison rival defenses. Unless we’re planning on bringing back to the run-n-shoot aka “chuck and duck” its not going to do us much good to not have a ball control offense when we have to go to Tampa and Carolina. Can we honestly say that having 3 viable WR’S is the end all to our problems? The skins for instance have 3 very good receivers and still saw the need for a big RB, granted Portis’s injury had a lot to do with it without a doubt.

The season still looks good although we have lost a good and proven player. I hope that the change for Lelie will make him want to prove doubters wrong and be a fresh start for him. He now has a QB that will bring the best out of him. In closing, I’ll say the move looks good for all 3 teams, but we didn’t get the better of the deal for Duckett!!

GO FALCS.

By cjr29

August 23, 2006 06:54 AM | Link to this

I like the aquisition of Grady Jackson he can penetrate through the line. Dunn was the better back and has been over the past years. Dunn is a hell of a player for his size at 5 ‘8 190lbs. Dunn fits the scheme more better than duckett and the facts are there he’s been more productive than duckett. Duckett is a good player but at times he could’ve been a little more productive with his size and talent. With the addition of lelie, I think pathon better look for another job.

By Philip

August 23, 2006 07:06 AM | Link to this

Risky move. I would have liked for us to get someone in return who was going to be with the Falcons longer than one year. I would rather have T.J. than Ashley for year year.

By Charles

August 23, 2006 07:10 AM | Link to this

Eziekel you said best, the problem we need DT’S that are big and stop the run. Brenston Buckner or Grady Jackson either one will do. EMERGENCY REQUEST!!!! I wanted TJ to stay but I can live with the move.